iGCSE Types of Software and Interrupts

Which statement best distinguishes system software from application software?

• System software is used for word processing tasks

• System software manages hardware and resources

• Application software controls device drivers and memory

• Application software provides the operating system shell

Fill in the blank: A (a)   translates high-level language into machine code so a computer can execute it without re-compilation.

Match each item with its role.

• Manages I/O, memory, security, and HCI

• Device driver

• Lets hardware communicate with the OS

• Word processor

• Combines object files into a single program

• Linker

• Performs maintenance like scans and backups

• Utility program

• Edits and formats textual documents

• Operating system

Which option best describes a linker in software development?

• Translates Python code into binary instructions

• Provides a GUI for editing spreadsheets

• Combines compiled modules into one executable

• Schedules processes using time slices and priorities

Which trigger is most likely to generate an interrupt from user interaction?

• A disk controller requesting additional data

• A scheduled timer reaching its periodic interval

• Pressing a special key combination on a keyboard

• A printer detecting a mechanical paper jam

Which function is primarily the responsibility of an operating system?

• Creating and editing digital videos

• Designing graphics for vector illustrations

• Converting source code to machine instructions

• Managing input/output and resource allocation

Which scenario illustrates an input/output process interrupt?

• A periodic timer tick occurs every 10 milliseconds

• A user presses Ctrl+Alt+Del on the keyboard

• A disk drive signals for additional data transfer

• A stuck key on the keyboard causes repeated letters

A mobile banking app belongs to which category of software?

• Application software installed on a device

• System software managing hardware resources

• Device driver controlling a card reader

• Utility software handling defragmentation

Which sequence shows correct handling when an interrupt occurs?

• Microprocessor halts, deletes task, restarts program, clears memory

• Microprocessor pauses, saves state, services interrupt, resumes task

• Application saves file, closes program, powers down system

• Operating system compiles code, links modules, restarts computer

Match each interrupt trigger to its example.

• Periodic alarm invoking a scheduler routine

• Input/output request

• Printer reports paper jam to the CPU

• Hardware fault

• Program tries to access a protected address

• Timing signal

• Disk controller needs buffer space extended

• Software error